Sanitizing Computer Equipment
Please follow these guidelines to sanitize computer equipment regularly.
- If you took University equipment home for remote work, you must sanitize that equipment before and after returning it to campus
- Once you return the equipment to campus, you should sanitize that equipment daily or before another person uses the equipment (shift change, shared workstation, etc.)
Sanitizing Electronics
To sanitize electronics such as laptops, desktops, tablets, monitors, touch screens, keyboards, mice, remote controls, printers, etc.:
- Follow manufacturer’s instruction for cleaning and disinfecting:
- Search the web for manufacturer guidance on sanitizing other computers and equipment. If you cannot find manufacturer guidance, please use alcohol-based wipes or sprays containing at least 70% alcohol. Dry surfaces thoroughly after wiping
- Consider putting a wipeable cover on electronics
Protecting Yourself While Cleaning
- Wear disposable gloves and masks
- Additional personal protective equipment (PPE) might be required based on the cleaning/disinfectant products being used and whether there is a risk of splash
- Gloves and gowns should be removed carefully to avoid contamination of the wearer and the surrounding area
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds.
- Always wash immediately after removing gloves and after contact with a person who is sick.
- Hand sanitizer: If soap and water are not available and hands are not visibly dirty, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol may be used. However, if hands are visibly dirty, always wash hands with soap and water.
When cleaning equipment, you should also consider cleaning high-touch surfaces like tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, etc.
Visit the CDC COVID-19 Facility Sanitization website for up to date information about sanitizing these high-touch surfaces, community workspaces, and office spaces.